French independent watchmaker March LA.B has introduced a more compact interpretation of one of its best-known designs, unveiling the new AM2 XS as a thinner, hand-wound addition to its angular AM2 collection.

The release marks a notable shift in emphasis for the brand, which has largely built its reputation around sportier executions of the AM2 line. While the new model keeps the sharp octagonal case and off-centre crown placement associated with the collection, the proportions have been scaled down considerably in what the company describes as a dress-oriented direction.

The AM2 XS measures 32mm across and 6.7mm thick, making it the slimmest version of the AM2 produced so far. The watch retains the faceted geometry that has defined the series, including polished angled surfaces around the case and vertically brushed sections running through the bezel at 12 and 6 o’clock.

Founded between Los Angeles and Biarritz in 2009, March LA.B has long tied its identity to a mix of Californian surf culture and restrained French styling. The AM2 family itself traces its design roots to the earlier AM1 collection, which drew inspiration from American muscle cars and 1970s industrial shapes.

That visual influence remains visible in the new model despite its reduced dimensions. The crown stays positioned at 4 o’clock, a detail that has become a recurring feature across the company’s catalogue. The screw-down construction contributes to a stated water resistance of 50 metres.

March LA.B is offering the AM2 XS in stainless steel and gold PVD finishes. The case is paired either with a seven-link steel bracelet or a leather strap, both equipped with quick-release spring bars. The lugs extend slightly beyond the compact case body, preserving the angular silhouette of earlier AM2 references.

Three dial variants are being introduced: green, white and gold tones identified by the company as Grall, Shelter and Golden Hour. Each uses a stamped houndstooth texture in place of the more overtly sporty detailing seen on previous AM2 models. The dial layout remains minimal, with no date window and no luminous material, relying instead on polished hour markers and faceted sword-shaped hands.

Inside the watch is the manually wound La Joux-Perret D101 calibre, visible through a green-tinted sapphire display back. The movement is described by the brand as an alternative to the ETA Peseux 7001 and measures 2.5mm thick. It operates at 3Hz and carries a stated power reserve of 50 hours.

The AM2 collection has previously appeared in a range of more experimental forms, including a titanium Millésime March edition released in 2024 and the carbon fibre Nyctalope model introduced earlier this year. With the AM2 XS, the company appears to be refining the same angular design language into a smaller and more restrained format rather than moving away from it entirely.

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For a brand whose identity has often leaned on bold case shapes and casual sport styling, the new model suggests a quieter interpretation of the AM2 line while keeping its defining profile intact.